THE SHOOTING SEASON.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 5119, 29 April 1927, Page 2

THE SHOOTING SEASON.

OPENING ON MONDAY. INDICATIONS OF GOOD SPORT. Everything points to an enjoyable and satisfactory opening day for the shooting season on Monday ne.xt. Ducks are reported to be plentiful, and the lagoons and lakes, are right, and given favourable weather local sportsmen should secure good bags. The old hands have, already secured favourite positions, and loos are located in every stretch where the- ducks congregate. Pukeko are on the open list this year for one month, thanks to the efforts of tlie local society last year. This bird is very plentiful, and although not as much in favour as theduck, is nevertheless a Welcome addition to the sportsman’s bag and a tasty change on his table. Pheasants are more numerous this year than last, as the result of the sanctuaries provided in the district which enable- a fair number of the birds to survive and breed in safety. The Karangahake, Koniata, and Wirihana sanctuaries are to be kept closed this year. The local Acclimatisation Society discussed the -matter of opening some of the sanctuaries and decided that in the interests of sportsmen better general results would be obtained by maintaining the present sanctuaries. This also applies to ducks. Given a suitable sanctuary where the birds can obtain shelter when the batteries of. guns open fire, the ducks would remain in the district instead of, as at present, being kept continuously on the wing and eventually leaving for other districts. Sportsmen are advised to note, that the season opens at 6 a.m. on Monday next (no shooting is to be- done on Sunday), and thereafter ndt earlier than half an hour before sunrise nor later than half an hour after sunset.

Shooting licenses may be obtained from the secretary of. the local society, Mr D. Leach, who will also be pleased to supply 7 any information at his disposal.